Pope Arrives in NYC

Pope Benedict XVI arrives in New York. AP Photo.

Pope Benedict XVI arrived this morning at Kennedy Airport, where church and government leaders greeted him.

He's just at the midpoint in his six-day journey to America, but it's not too soon to consider what kind of public persona has developed for the pontiff. Recall that polls taken before the trip showed that while most Americans had a positive view of him, the vast majority knew little about the pope.

This is going to be a matter of perception, of course, but I find that he's established himself as a graceful presence. His English is clear and his accent pleasing. He's surprised many by publicly addressing the American Catholic Church's serious problems - not what might be expected from a pope who has spent decades working in the Vatican bureaucracy.

He's managed to be direct in his criticisms without coming across as a scold; there is a warmth that comes through his professorial demeanor. From the nation's capital, he's given Americans a devastating critique of their culture and at the same time shown his great appreciation for what makes this country and its people great. As expected, he's given some intellectually sophisticated talks that are worth re-reading. But he also has connected on an emotional level, meeting with victims of clergy sexual abuse.

Those are some initial impressions, but there is much more to come. Pope Benedict is to speak at the United Nations, visit a synagogue and then lead an interfaith prayer service at St. Joseph's Church in Manhattan's Yorkville section.